Mario Balotelli returns to contention for Italy’s Euro 2016 qualifier against Croatia on 16 November and a friendly with Albania. Photograph: Matthew Ashton/AMA/Corbis

The Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has been named in an Italy squad for the first time since the World Cup finals.

The 24-year-old, who left Milan for Anfield in the weeks that followed Italy’s early return from Brazil, played no part in the first four games of Antonio Conte’s reign as the Italy manager.

Balotelli returns to contention for a Euro 2016 qualifier against Croatia and the friendly with Albania while the Atlético Madrid winger Alessio Cerci is also recalled.

The Italian Football Federation’s website revealed a first call-up for the Torino defender Emiliano Moretti. The uncapped midfielders Andrea Bertolacci of Genoa and Roberto Soriano of Sampdoria will also hope to feature alongside the young Empoli defender Daniele Rugani.

The Southampton striker Graziano Pellè retains his place after scoring on his debut against Malta.

Italy meet Croatia at San Siro on 16 November before tackling Albania in Genoa two days later.